Since taking office in September 2022, Algerian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Kamal Baddari has been working to redefine the role of universities in Algeria. The sector is no longer limited to its traditional tasks of academic training and degree-granting but has entered a new phase that involves transforming universities into scientific and economic forces. This initiative is part of a broader reform aimed at making knowledge a driver of national development.
The reforms have led to significant changes in the Algerian university system. By November 2026, the sector had seen substantial growth in research and innovation. Algeria had registered 3949 patents, established 673 start-ups, and created 4906 small enterprises and 442 subsidiary economic institutions. Additionally, 2339 projects were awarded the "innovative project" label, and 76 innovative projects were directed towards the economic sector.
These developments have contributed to the creation of 17046 direct jobs since 2022. The ministry has encouraged students to engage in entrepreneurship and has strengthened the innovation infrastructure through business incubators, entrepreneurship development centers, innovation poles, and fabrication laboratories. This approach has opened up new opportunities for students beyond traditional career paths.
Minister Baddari has also focused on enhancing the financial resources allocated to scientific research. The budget for research was increased by 112% between 2022 and 2024, reaching 18 billion dinars in 2024. This increase reflects the government's commitment to prioritizing research and providing the necessary conditions for researchers to develop their projects.
The research sector has seen significant activity, with the launch of numerous electronic platforms, development of project monitoring mechanisms, and expansion of research grant opportunities for professors and students. The ministry has also encouraged scientific publishing in English, the primary language of international scientific communication.
The reforms have also emphasized digitalization, with the introduction of electronic platforms for university services, including registration, pedagogical services, and student transportation. The development of the "PROGRES" information system and the "Manhouti" platform for scholarship applications have streamlined administrative procedures and improved the quality of services.
Algerian universities have improved their international rankings, with 28 institutions included in the 2025 Times Higher Education rankings, up from one in 2017. The sector has also prioritized quality and international standards, with efforts to adopt ISO standards in university institutions and develop evaluation mechanisms.
Key points
- The Algerian government has increased the research budget by 112% between 2022 and 2024.
- Algeria has registered 3949 patents and established 673 start-ups by November 2026.
- The reforms aim to transform universities into innovation and production hubs, contributing to national development.
